exempt · escape

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 免 concerns exemption or release from an obligation and has the on-reading めん.
• Basic usage: 免許(めんきょ) is a license to do something, while 免除(めんじょ) means exemption from a duty or burden.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Permission to act and release from a requirement
  • 船を操る免許 refers to permission to operate a boat. 授業料が免除される means tuition that would otherwise be due need not be paid: 免許 grants permission, while 免除 removes a burden or requirement.